News Releases
FEBRUARY 18, 2024
Encouraging Independence in School-Age Children
BY SAM JOCKEL & PARENTTV
Getting kids to be more independent is super important for their growth. We can use research-backed strategies to guide us, helping kids become responsible and self-sufficient. In this blog post, we’ll explore simple and effective ways to nurture independence in school-age children.
Why Independence Matters:
Researchers tell us that letting kids make choices and decisions is a big deal. When kids get to decide things, it boosts their confidence and makes them feel good about themselves.
Taking Steps Together:
A great way to help kids be more independent is by slowly giving them more responsibilities. Experts call it the “gradual release of responsibility.” Studies show that when teachers and parents do this, kids do better in school and feel more capable.
Praise for Good Stuff:
When we notice kids doing things on their own, it’s important to cheer them on. Research in psychology shows that when kids get positive feedback, they’re more likely to keep doing things by themselves. So, let’s give them a pat on the back!
Figuring Things Out:
Another smart idea is teaching kids how to solve problems. Studies say that if we show kids how to find solutions and think for themselves, they become more independent. This helps them become better at thinking through challenges.
Playtime Fun:
Letting kids have free playtime is a great way to help them become more independent. Research tells us that when kids play without too many rules, they get better at figuring things out on their own. So, let’s give them some time to play freely!
Believing in Growth:
A psychologist named Carol Dweck found that praising kids for their effort, not just saying they’re smart, helps them be more independent. When kids think they can get better at something by working hard, they’re more likely to try things on their own. This is called having a “growth mindset.”
To sum it up, helping kids be more independent doesn’t have to be complicated. We can use easy and research-backed strategies. Whether it’s letting them make choices, sharing responsibilities, praising their efforts, teaching problem-solving, allowing free play, or encouraging a growth mindset – these simple approaches can make a big difference in raising kids who are confident, resilient, and ready for whatever comes their way.
Recent News Releases
New Stories from Story Box Library
April 8, 2024
At Story Box Library, we’ve got three new stories that reflect and celebrate the diversity of our communities and experiences. There’s a Bull Ant in The Bedroom, a hilarious tale written and read by Adam Wallace and illustrated by Shane McGowan, involves an unlikely cast of characters, a fierce Bull Ant and...
Read more
Introducing Edda and Peter to the James Bennett team!
March 20, 2024
James Bennett is very lucky to welcome two new staff members, Peter Wallace and Edda Eckhardt! We asked them 5 questions in 5 minutes to get to know them a little better. Joining our Sales Team is Peter Wallace. Peter started working in libraries at the age of 17 as a shelver. He...
Read more
Preserving Indigenous languages: Libraries have a role to play
March 19, 2024
Here's an alarming statistic: a 2021 study by researchers at Australian National University warned that, of the approximately 7,000 that are currently spoken around the world, some 1,500 of the world's languages are in danger of no longer being spoken by the end of this century.The study, titled "Global predictors...
Read more
Four factors to consider when choosing tech tools for libraries in 2024!
February 21, 2024
The technological evolution of the public library — already a long-standing trend — continues in 2024, with no signs of slowing down. From conversational search tools that rely on natural language processing to artificial intelligence and virtual reality, emerging technologies are propelling library services into the future, which means that...
Read more
Stand By: Technical Difficulties
February 19, 2024
Our phones are currently experiencing technical difficulties.Please email client services for any urgent matters at csrs@bennett.com.au or contact your account manager.We apologise for the inconvenience caused and are working to repair this ASAP.
Read more
Encouraging Independence in School-Age Children
February 18, 2024
Getting kids to be more independent is super important for their growth. We can use research-backed strategies to guide us, helping kids become responsible and self-sufficient. In this blog post, we’ll explore simple and effective ways to nurture independence in school-age children.Why Independence Matters:Researchers tell us that letting kids make...
Read more